Piazza Indipendenza (Independence Square), Palermo

Independence Square (Piazza Indipendenza), located in Palermo, holds a central position in the city's social and political life. Formerly known as Santa Teresa, the square was renamed following the unification of Italy in the mid-19th century. It was historically linked to the church of the Madonna dei Rimedi, originally dedicated to Saint Teresa of Avila, reflecting its deep-rooted religious significance.

The square houses several vital buildings, making it a hub of both historical and contemporary significance. Among them are the Palace of Orleans (Palazzo d'Orleans), the office for the presidency of the Sicilian Region, and the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale). This palace is notable not only for the location of the Sicilian Regional Assembly but also for its access to the exquisite Palatine Chapel. Additionally, the area includes a military district and a historical post station, highlighting its multifunctional role throughout history.

The square itself is expansive, featuring a large central garden that dates from a relatively recent period and incorporates one of the bastions of the Norman Palace. To the south, one finds the Orleans Park and the Palazzo Reale-Orleans underground railway station, enhancing the square’s connectivity with modern transport facilities.

A pivotal moment in the square's history was marked on April 4, 1866, when an obelisk was erected in honor of the martyrs of Italian independence. This monument commemorates the Gancia revolt, an anti-Bourbon uprising that significantly preceded the crucial landing at Marsala by Garibaldi's forces.

Today, Independence Square remains a vital cultural and historical site, encompassing significant landmarks such as the New Gate (Porta Nuova), the Palace of the Normans (Palazzo dei Normanni), and the Palatine Chapel. This blend of rich history, architectural grandeur, and political significance makes the square a prominent feature in the cultural landscape of Palermo.